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Tong AY, Tong EL, Hannani MA, Shaffer SN, Santiago D, Ferré-D'Amaré AR, Passalacqua LFM, Abdelsayed MM. RNA thermometers are widespread upstream of ABC transporter genes in bacteria. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107547. [PMID: 38992441 PMCID: PMC11342760 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA thermometers are temperature-sensing non-coding RNAs that regulate the expression of downstream genes. A well-characterized RNA thermometer motif discovered in bacteria is the ROSE-like element (repression of heat shock gene expression). ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are a superfamily of transmembrane proteins that harness ATP hydrolysis to facilitate the export and import of substrates across cellular membranes. Through structure-guided bioinformatics, we discovered that ROSE-like RNA thermometers are widespread upstream of ABC transporter genes in bacteria. X-ray crystallography, biochemistry, and cellular assays indicate that these RNA thermometers are functional regulatory elements. This study expands the known biological role of RNA thermometers to these key membrane transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Y Tong
- Department of Biology, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California, USA
| | - Elisha L Tong
- Department of Biology, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California, USA
| | - Michael A Hannani
- Department of Biology, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California, USA
| | - Samantha N Shaffer
- Laboratory of Nucleic Acids, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Danna Santiago
- Department of Biology, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California, USA
| | - Adrian R Ferré-D'Amaré
- Laboratory of Nucleic Acids, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Luiz F M Passalacqua
- Laboratory of Nucleic Acids, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
| | - Michael M Abdelsayed
- Department of Biology, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California, USA.
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2
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McKinley LN, Meyer MO, Sebastian A, Chang BK, Messina KJ, Albert I, Bevilacqua PC. Direct testing of natural twister ribozymes from over a thousand organisms reveals a broad tolerance for structural imperfections. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.11.603121. [PMID: 39026743 PMCID: PMC11257566 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.11.603121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Twister ribozymes are an extensively studied class of nucleolytic RNAs. Thousands of natural twisters have been proposed using sequence homology and structural descriptors. Yet, most of these candidates have not been validated experimentally. To address this gap, we developed CHiTA (Cleavage High-Throughput Assay), a high-throughput pipeline utilizing massively parallel oligonucleotide synthesis and next-generation sequencing to test putative ribozymes en masse in a scarless fashion. As proof of principle, we applied CHiTA to a small set of known active and mutant ribozymes. We then used CHiTA to test two large sets of naturally occurring twister ribozymes: over 1, 600 previously reported putative twisters and ∼1, 000 new candidate twisters. The new candidates were identified computationally in ∼1, 000 organisms, representing a massive increase in the number of ribozyme-harboring organisms. Approximately 94% of the twisters we tested were active and cleaved site-specifically. Analysis of their structural features revealed that many substitutions and helical imperfections can be tolerated. We repeated our computational search with structural descriptors updated from this analysis, whereupon we identified and confirmed the first intrinsically active twister ribozyme in mammals. CHiTA broadly expands the number of active twister ribozymes found in nature and provides a powerful method for functional analyses of other RNAs. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
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3
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Gola KK, Patel A, Sen S. Tradeoffs in the design of RNA thermometers. Phys Biol 2024; 21:044001. [PMID: 38949434 DOI: 10.1088/1478-3975/ad5d6b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The synthesis of RNA thermometers is aimed at achieving temperature responses with desired thresholds and sensitivities. Although previous works have generated thermometers with a variety of thresholds and sensitivities as well as guidelines for design, possible constraints in the achievable thresholds and sensitivities remain unclear. We addressed this issue using a two-state model and its variants, as well as melt profiles generated from thermodynamic computations. In the two-state model, we found that the threshold was inversely proportional to the sensitivity, in the case of a fixed energy difference between the two states. Notably, this constraint could persist in variations of the two-state model with sequentially unfolding states and branched parallel pathways. Furthermore, the melt profiles generated from a library of thermometers exhibited a similar constraint. These results should inform the design of RNA thermometers as well as other responses that are mediated in a similar fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishan Kumar Gola
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi 110016, India
| | - Abhilash Patel
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016, India
| | - Shaunak Sen
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi 110016, India
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4
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Narunsky A, Higgs GA, Torres BM, Yu D, de Andrade GB, Kavita K, Breaker RR. The discovery of novel noncoding RNAs in 50 bacterial genomes. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:5152-5165. [PMID: 38647067 PMCID: PMC11109978 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Structured noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) contribute to many important cellular processes involving chemical catalysis, molecular recognition and gene regulation. Few ncRNA classes are broadly distributed among organisms from all three domains of life, but the list of rarer classes that exhibit surprisingly diverse functions is growing. We previously developed a computational pipeline that enables the near-comprehensive identification of structured ncRNAs expressed from individual bacterial genomes. The regions between protein coding genes are first sorted based on length and the fraction of guanosine and cytidine nucleotides. Long, GC-rich intergenic regions are then examined for sequence and structural similarity to other bacterial genomes. Herein, we describe the implementation of this pipeline on 50 bacterial genomes from varied phyla. More than 4700 candidate intergenic regions with the desired characteristics were identified, which yielded 44 novel riboswitch candidates and numerous other putative ncRNA motifs. Although experimental validation studies have yet to be conducted, this rate of riboswitch candidate discovery is consistent with predictions that many hundreds of novel riboswitch classes remain to be discovered among the bacterial species whose genomes have already been sequenced. Thus, many thousands of additional novel ncRNA classes likely remain to be discovered in the bacterial domain of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Narunsky
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Gadareth A Higgs
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Blake M Torres
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Diane Yu
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Gabriel Belem de Andrade
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Kumari Kavita
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Ronald R Breaker
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
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5
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Dabin A, Stirnemann G. Atomistic simulations of RNA duplex thermal denaturation: Sequence- and forcefield-dependence. Biophys Chem 2024; 307:107167. [PMID: 38262278 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2023.107167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Double-stranded RNA is the end-product of template-based replication, and is also the functional state of some biological RNAs. Similarly to proteins and DNA, they can be denatured by temperature, with important physiological and technological implications. Here, we use an in silico strategy to probe the thermal denaturation of RNA duplexes. Following previous results that were obtained on a few different duplexes, and which nuanced the canonical 2-state picture of nucleic acid denaturation, we here specifically address three different aspects that greatly improve our description of the temperature-induced dsRNA separation. First, we investigate the effect of the spatial distribution of weak and strong base-pairs among the duplex sequence. We show that the deviations from the two-state dehybridization mechanism are more pronounced when a strong core is flanked with weak extremities, while duplexes with a weak core but strong extremities exhibit a two-state behavior, which can be explained by the key role played by base fraying. This was later verified by generating artificial hairpin or circular states containing one or two locked duplex extremities, which results in an important reinforcement of the entire HB structure of the duplex and higher melting temperatures. Finally, we demonstrate that our results are little sensitive to the employed combination of RNA and water forcefields. The trends in thermal stability among the different sequences as well as the observed unfolding mechanisms (and the deviations from a two-state scenario) remain the same regardless of the employed atomistic models. However, our study points to possible limitations of recent reparametrizations of the Amber RNA forcefield, which sometimes results in duplexes that readily denature under ambient conditions, in contradiction with available experimental results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimeric Dabin
- CNRS Laboratoire de Biochimie Théorique, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, Université de Paris Cité, 13 rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Stirnemann
- PASTEUR, Département de chimie, École normale supérieure, PSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 75005 Paris, France.
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6
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Lee H, Yu SH, Shim JE, Yong D. Use of a combined antibacterial synergy approach and the ANNOgesic tool to identify novel targets within the gene networks of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae. mSystems 2024; 9:e0087723. [PMID: 38349171 PMCID: PMC10949472 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00877-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the 1980s, the development of new drug classes for the treatment of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae has become limited, highlighting the urgent need for novel antibiotics. To address this challenge, this study aimed to explore the synergistic interactions between chemical compounds and representative antibiotics, such as carbapenem and colistin. The primary objective of this study was not only to mitigate the adverse impact of multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae on public health but also to establish a sustainable balance among humans, animals, and the environment. Phenotypical measurements were conducted using the broth microdilution technique to determine the drug sensitivity of bacterial strains. Additionally, a genotypical approach was employed, involving traditional RNA sequencing analysis to identify differentially expressed genes and the computational ANNOgesic tool to detect noncoding RNAs. This study revealed the existence of various pathways and regulatory RNA elements that form a functional network. These pathways, characterized by the expression of specific genes, contribute to the combined treatment effect and bacterial survival strategies. The connections between pathways are facilitated by regulatory RNA elements that respond to environmental changes. These findings suggest an adaptive response of bacteria to harsh environmental conditions.IMPORTANCENoncoding RNAs were identified as key players in post-transcriptional regulation. Moreover, this study predicted the presence of novel small regulatory RNAs that interact with target genes, as well as the involvement of riboswitches and RNA thermometers in conjunction with associated genes. These findings will contribute to the discovery of potential antimicrobial therapeutic candidates. Overall, this study offers valuable insights into the synergistic effects of chemical compounds and antibiotics, highlighting the role of regulatory RNA elements in bacterial response, and survival strategies. The identification of novel noncoding RNAs and their interactions with target genes, riboswitches, and RNA thermometers holds promise for the development of antimicrobial therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunsook Lee
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Research Institute of Bacterial Resistance, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung-Huan Yu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, College of Medicine, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jung Eun Shim
- Bioinformatics Collaboration Unit, Yonsei Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dongeun Yong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Research Institute of Bacterial Resistance, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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7
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von Löhneysen S, Mörl M, Stadler PF. Limits of experimental evidence in RNA secondary structure prediction. FRONTIERS IN BIOINFORMATICS 2024; 4:1346779. [PMID: 38456157 PMCID: PMC10918467 DOI: 10.3389/fbinf.2024.1346779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah von Löhneysen
- Bioinformatics Group, Department of Computer Science, Interdisciplinary Center for Bioinformatics, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Mario Mörl
- Institute for Biochemistry, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Peter F. Stadler
- Bioinformatics Group, Department of Computer Science, Interdisciplinary Center for Bioinformatics, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Competence Center for Scalable Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence, School of Embedded and Compositive Artificial Intelligence (SECAI), Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Theoretical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad National de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
- Center for Non-Coding RNA in Technology and Health, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- Santa Fe Institute, Santa Fe, NM, United States
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8
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Tong A, Caudill EE, Jones AR, F. M. Passalacqua L, Abdelsayed MM. Characterization of a FourU RNA Thermometer in the 5' Untranslated Region of Autolysin Gene blyA in the Bacillus subtilis 168 Prophage SPβ. Biochemistry 2023; 62:2902-2907. [PMID: 37699513 PMCID: PMC10586365 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.3c00368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
RNA thermometers are noncoding RNA structures located in the 5' untranslated regions (UTRs) of genes that regulate gene expression through temperature-dependent conformational changes. The fourU class of RNA thermometers contains a specific motif in which four consecutive uracil nucleotides are predicted to base pair with the Shine-Dalgarno (SD) sequence in a stem. We employed a bioinformatic search to discover a fourU RNA thermometer in the 5'-UTR of the blyA gene of the Bacillus subtilis phage SPβc2, a bacteriophage that infects B. subtilis 168. blyA encodes an autolysin enzyme, N-acetylmuramoyl-l-alanine amidase, which is involved in the lytic life cycle of the SPβ prophage. We have biochemically validated the predicted RNA thermometer in the 5'-UTR of the blyA gene. Our study suggests that RNA thermometers may play an underappreciated yet critical role in the lytic life cycle of bacteriophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina
Y. Tong
- Department
of Biology, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California 91360, United States
| | - Emma E. Caudill
- Department
of Biology, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California 91360, United States
| | - Alexis R. Jones
- Department
of Biology, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California 91360, United States
| | - Luiz F. M. Passalacqua
- Laboratory
of Nucleic Acids, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Michael M. Abdelsayed
- Department
of Biology, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, California 91360, United States
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9
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Jung JH, Seo PJ, Oh E, Kim J. Temperature perception by plants. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 28:924-940. [PMID: 37045740 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Plants constantly face fluctuating ambient temperatures and must adapt to survive under stressful conditions. Temperature affects many aspects of plant growth and development through a complex network of transcriptional responses. Although temperature sensing is a crucial primary step in initiating transcriptional responses via Ca2+ and/or reactive oxygen species signaling, an understanding of how plants perceive temperature has remained elusive. However, recent studies have yielded breakthroughs in our understanding of temperature sensors and thermosensation mechanisms. We review recent findings on potential temperature sensors and emerging thermosensation mechanisms, including biomolecular condensate formation through phase separation in plants. We also compare the temperature perception mechanisms of plants with those of other organisms to provide insights into understanding temperature sensing by plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Hoon Jung
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Pil Joon Seo
- Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Eunkyoo Oh
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Jungmook Kim
- Department of Bioenergy Science and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea; Department of Integrative Food, Bioscience, and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea.
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10
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Dabin A, Stirnemann G. Toward a Molecular Mechanism of Complementary RNA Duplexes Denaturation. J Phys Chem B 2023. [PMID: 37389985 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c00908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
RNA duplexes are relatively rare but play very important biological roles. As an end-product of template-based RNA replication, they also have key implications for hypothetical primitive forms of life. Unless they are specifically separated by enzymes, these duplexes denature upon a temperature increase. However, mechanistic and kinetic aspects of RNA (and DNA) duplex thermal denaturation remain unclear at the microscopic level. We propose an in silico strategy that probes the thermal denaturation of RNA duplexes and allows for an extensive conformational space exploration along a wide temperature range with atomistic precision. We show that this approach first accounts for the strong sequence and length dependence of the duplexes melting temperature, reproducing the trends seen in the experiments and predicted by nearest-neighbor models. The simulations are then instrumental at providing a molecular picture of the temperature-induced strand separation. The textbook canonical "all-or-nothing" two-state model, very much inspired by the protein folding mechanism, can be nuanced. We demonstrate that a temperature increase leads to significantly distorted but stable structures with extensive base-fraying at the extremities, and that the fully formed duplexes typically do not form around melting. The duplex separation therefore appears as much more gradual than commonly thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimeric Dabin
- CNRS Laboratoire de Biochimie Théorique, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, PSL University, Université de Paris, 13 rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Stirnemann
- CNRS Laboratoire de Biochimie Théorique, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, PSL University, Université de Paris, 13 rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005, Paris, France
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11
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Fomin V, Bazhenov S, Kononchuk O, Matveeva V, Zarubina A, Spiridonov S, Manukhov I. Photorhabdus lux-operon heat shock-like regulation. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14527. [PMID: 36950606 PMCID: PMC10025913 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
For decades, transcription of Photorhabdus luminescens lux-operon was considered being constitutive. Therefore, this lux-operon has been used for measurements in non-specific bacterial luminescent biosensors. Here, the expression of Photorhabdus lux-operon under high temperature was studied. The expression was researched in the natural strain Photorhabdus temperata and in the heterologous system of Escherichia coli. P. temperata FV2201 bacterium was isolated from soil in the Moscow region (growth optimum 28 °C). We showed that its luminescence significantly increases when the temperature rises to 34 °C. The increase in luminescence is associated with an increase in the transcription of luxCDABE genes, which was confirmed by RT-PCR. The promoter of the lux-operon of the related bacterium P. luminescens ZM1 from the forests of Moldova, being cloned in the heterologous system of E. coli, is activated when the temperature rises from room temperature to 42 °C. When heat shock is caused by ethanol addition, transcription of lux-operon increases only in the natural strain of P. temperata, but not in the heterologous system of E. coli cells. In addition, the activation of the lux-operon of P. luminescens persists in E. coli strains deficient in both the rpoH and rpoE genes. These results indicate the presence of sigma 32 and sigma 24 independent heat-shock-like mechanism of regulation of the lux-operon of P. luminescens in the heterologous E. coli system.
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Affiliation(s)
- V.V. Fomin
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Institutsky Lane 9, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141700, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Microbiology, BIOTECH University, Volokolamskoe Highway 11, Moscow 125080, Russian Federation
| | - S.V. Bazhenov
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Institutsky Lane 9, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141700, Russian Federation
| | - O.V. Kononchuk
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Institutsky Lane 9, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141700, Russian Federation
- Laboratory of Microbiology, BIOTECH University, Volokolamskoe Highway 11, Moscow 125080, Russian Federation
| | - V.O. Matveeva
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Institutsky Lane 9, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141700, Russian Federation
| | - A.P. Zarubina
- Biological Faculty, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Vorob’evy Gory, Moscow, 119992, Russian Federation
| | - S.E. Spiridonov
- Centre of Parasitology, A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninskii Prospect, 33, Moscow, 119071, Russian Federation
| | - I.V. Manukhov
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Institutsky Lane 9, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, 141700, Russian Federation
- Corresponding author.
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12
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Gupta P, Khadake RM, Panja S, Shinde K, Rode AB. Alternative RNA Conformations: Companion or Combatant. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:1930. [PMID: 36360167 PMCID: PMC9689429 DOI: 10.3390/genes13111930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA molecules, in one form or another, are involved in almost all aspects of cell physiology, as well as in disease development. The diversity of the functional roles of RNA comes from its intrinsic ability to adopt complex secondary and tertiary structures, rivaling the diversity of proteins. The RNA molecules form dynamic ensembles of many interconverting conformations at a timescale of seconds, which is a key for understanding how they execute their cellular functions. Given the crucial role of RNAs in various cellular processes, we need to understand the RNA molecules from a structural perspective. Central to this review are studies aimed at revealing the regulatory role of conformational equilibria in RNA in humans to understand genetic diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as in pathogens such as bacteria and viruses so as to understand the progression of infectious diseases. Furthermore, we also summarize the prior studies on the use of RNA structures as platforms for the rational design of small molecules for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ambadas B. Rode
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad—Gurugram Expressway, Faridabad 121001, India
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13
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Sharma P, Mondal K, Kumar S, Tamang S, Najar IN, Das S, Thakur N. RNA thermometers in bacteria: Role in thermoregulation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA (BBA) - GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2022; 1865:194871. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2022.194871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
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14
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Thomas SE, Balcerowicz M, Chung BYW. RNA structure mediated thermoregulation: What can we learn from plants? FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:938570. [PMID: 36092413 PMCID: PMC9450479 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.938570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
RNA molecules have the capacity to form a multitude of distinct secondary and tertiary structures, but only the most energetically favorable conformations are adopted at any given time. Formation of such structures strongly depends on the environment and consequently, these structures are highly dynamic and may refold as their surroundings change. Temperature is one of the most direct physical parameters that influence RNA structure dynamics, and in turn, thermosensitive RNA structures can be harnessed by a cell to perceive and respond to its temperature environment. Indeed, many thermosensitive RNA structures with biological function have been identified in prokaryotic organisms, but for a long time such structures remained elusive in eukaryotes. Recent discoveries, however, reveal that thermosensitive RNA structures are also found in plants, where they affect RNA stability, pre-mRNA splicing and translation efficiency in a temperature-dependent manner. In this minireview, we provide a short overview of thermosensitive RNA structures in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, highlight recent advances made in identifying such structures in plants and discuss their similarities and differences to established prokaryotic RNA thermosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherine E. Thomas
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Balcerowicz
- Division of Plant Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Betty Y.-W. Chung
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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15
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Response and regulatory mechanisms of heat resistance in pathogenic fungi. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:5415-5431. [PMID: 35941254 PMCID: PMC9360699 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-12119-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Both the increasing environmental temperature in nature and the defensive body temperature response to pathogenic fungi during mammalian infection cause heat stress during the fungal existence, reproduction, and pathogenic infection. To adapt and respond to the changing environment, fungi initiate a series of actions through a perfect thermal response system, conservative signaling pathways, corresponding transcriptional regulatory system, corresponding physiological and biochemical processes, and phenotypic changes. However, until now, accurate response and regulatory mechanisms have remained a challenge. Additionally, at present, the latest research progress on the heat resistance mechanism of pathogenic fungi has not been summarized. In this review, recent research investigating temperature sensing, transcriptional regulation, and physiological, biochemical, and morphological responses of fungi in response to heat stress is discussed. Moreover, the specificity thermal adaptation mechanism of pathogenic fungi in vivo is highlighted. These data will provide valuable knowledge to further understand the fungal heat adaptation and response mechanism, especially in pathogenic heat-resistant fungi. Key points • Mechanisms of fungal perception of heat pressure are reviewed. • The regulatory mechanism of fungal resistance to heat stress is discussed. • The thermal adaptation mechanism of pathogenic fungi in the human body is highlighted.
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Mahendran G, Jayasinghe OT, Thavakumaran D, Arachchilage GM, Silva GN. Key players in regulatory RNA realm of bacteria. Biochem Biophys Rep 2022; 30:101276. [PMID: 35592614 PMCID: PMC9111926 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2022.101276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Precise regulation of gene expression is crucial for living cells to adapt for survival in diverse environmental conditions. Among the common cellular regulatory mechanisms, RNA-based regulators play a key role in all domains of life. Discovery of regulatory RNAs have made a paradigm shift in molecular biology as many regulatory functions of RNA have been identified beyond its canonical roles as messenger, ribosomal and transfer RNA. In the complex regulatory RNA network, riboswitches, small RNAs, and RNA thermometers can be identified as some of the key players. Herein, we review the discovery, mechanism, and potential therapeutic use of these classes of regulatory RNAs mainly found in bacteria. Being highly adaptive organisms that inhabit a broad range of ecological niches, bacteria have adopted tight and rapid-responding gene regulation mechanisms. This review aims to highlight how bacteria utilize versatile RNA structures and sequences to build a sophisticated gene regulation network. The three major classes of prokaryotic ncRNAs and their characterized mechanisms of operation in gene regulation. sRNAs emerging as major players in global gene regulatory networks. Riboswitch mediated gene control mechanisms through on/off switches in response to ligand binding. RNA thermo sensors for temperature-dependent gene expression. Therapeutic importance of ncRNAs and computational approaches involved in the discovery of ncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gowthami Mahendran
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA
| | - Oshadhi T. Jayasinghe
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for RNA Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Dhanushika Thavakumaran
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA
| | - Gayan Mirihana Arachchilage
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520-8103, USA
- PTC Therapeutics Inc, South Plainfield, NJ, 07080, USA
| | - Gayathri N. Silva
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Corresponding author.
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17
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Perez FP, Bandeira JP, Perez Chumbiauca CN, Lahiri DK, Morisaki J, Rizkalla M. Multidimensional insights into the repeated electromagnetic field stimulation and biosystems interaction in aging and age-related diseases. J Biomed Sci 2022; 29:39. [PMID: 35698225 PMCID: PMC9190166 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-022-00825-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We provide a multidimensional sequence of events that describe the electromagnetic field (EMF) stimulation and biological system interaction. We describe this process from the quantum to the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. We hypothesized that the sequence of events of these interactions starts with the oscillatory effect of the repeated electromagnetic stimulation (REMFS). These oscillations affect the interfacial water of an RNA causing changes at the quantum and molecular levels that release protons by quantum tunneling. Then protonation of RNA produces conformational changes that allow it to bind and activate Heat Shock Transcription Factor 1 (HSF1). Activated HSF1 binds to the DNA expressing chaperones that help regulate autophagy and degradation of abnormal proteins. This action helps to prevent and treat diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease (PD) by increasing clearance of pathologic proteins. This framework is based on multiple mathematical models, computer simulations, biophysical experiments, and cellular and animal studies. Results of the literature review and our research point towards the capacity of REMFS to manipulate various networks altered in aging (Reale et al. PloS one 9, e104973, 2014), including delay of cellular senescence (Perez et al. 2008, Exp Gerontol 43, 307-316) and reduction in levels of amyloid-β peptides (Aβ) (Perez et al. 2021, Sci Rep 11, 621). Results of these experiments using REMFS at low frequencies can be applied to the treatment of patients with age-related diseases. The use of EMF as a non-invasive therapeutic modality for Alzheimer's disease, specifically, holds promise. It is also necessary to consider the complicated and interconnected genetic and epigenetic effects of the REMFS-biological system's interaction while avoiding any possible adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe P Perez
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| | - Joseph P Bandeira
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Cristina N Perez Chumbiauca
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Debomoy K Lahiri
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Neuroscience Research Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jorge Morisaki
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maher Rizkalla
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Binding of 30S Ribosome Induces Single-stranded Conformation Within and Downstream of the Expression Platform in a Translational Riboswitch. J Mol Biol 2022; 434:167668. [PMID: 35667471 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Translational riboswitches are bacterial gene regulatory elements found in the 5'-untranslated region of mRNAs. They operate through a conformational refolding reaction that is triggered by a concentration change of a modulating small molecular ligand. The translation initiation region (TIR) is either released from or incorporated into base pairing interactions through the conformational switch. Hence, initiation of translation is regulated by the accessibility of the Shine-Dalgarno sequence and start codon. Interaction with the 30S ribosome is indispensable for the structural switch between functional OFF and ON states. However, on a molecular level it is still not fully resolved how the ribosome is accommodated near or at the translation initiation region in the context of translational riboswitches. The standby model of translation initiation postulates a binding site where the mRNA enters the ribosome and where it resides until the initiation site becomes unstructured and accessible. We here investigated the adenine-sensing riboswitch from Vibrio vulnificus. By application of a 19F labelling strategy for NMR spectroscopy that utilizes ligation techniques to synthesize differentially 19F labelled riboswitch molecules we show that nucleotides directly downstream of the riboswitch domain are first involved in productive interaction with the 30S ribosomal subunit. Upon the concerted action of ligand and the ribosomal protein rS1 the TIR becomes available and subsequently the 30S ribosome can slide towards the TIR. It will be interesting to see whether this is a general feature in translational riboswitches or if riboswitches exist where this region is structured and represent yet another layer of regulation.
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19
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Abstract
A substantial portion of molecules in an organism are involved in regulation of a wide spectrum of biological processes. Several models have been presented for various forms of biological regulation, including gene expression regulation and physiological regulation; however, a generic model is missing. Recently a new unifying theory in biology, poikilosis, was presented. Poikilosis indicates that all systems display intrinsic heterogeneity, which is a normal state. The concept of poikilosis allowed development of a model for biological regulation applicable to all types of regulated systems. The perturbation-lagom-TATAR countermeasures-regulator (PLTR) model combines the effects of perturbation and lagom (allowed and sufficient extent of heterogeneity) in a system with tolerance, avoidance, repair, attenuation and resistance (TARAR) countermeasures, and possible regulators. There are three modes of regulation, two of which are lagom-related. In the first scenario, lagom is maintained, both intrinsic (passive) and active TARAR countermeasures can be involved. In the second mode, there is a shift from one lagom to another. In the third mode, reguland regulation, the regulated entity is the target of a regulatory shift, which is often irreversible or requires action of another regulator to return to original state. After the shift, the system enters to lagom maintenance mode, but at new lagom extent. The model is described and elaborated with examples and applications, including medicine and systems biology. Consequences of non-lagom extent of heterogeneity are introduced, along with a novel idea for therapy by reconstituting biological processes to lagom extent, even when the primary effect cannot be treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauno Vihinen
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, BMC B13, Lund, SE-221 84, Sweden
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20
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Abstract
A substantial portion of molecules in an organism are involved in regulation of a wide spectrum of biological processes. Several models have been presented for various forms of biological regulation, including gene expression regulation and physiological regulation; however, a generic model is missing. Recently a new unifying theory in biology, poikilosis, was presented. Poikilosis indicates that all systems display intrinsic heterogeneity. The concept of poikilosis allowed development of a model for biological regulation applicable to all types of regulated systems. The perturbation-lagom-TATAR countermeasures-regulator (PLTR) model combines the effects of perturbation and lagom (allowed and sufficient extent of heterogeneity) in a system with tolerance, avoidance, repair, attenuation and resistance (TARAR) countermeasures, and possible regulators. There are three modes of regulation, two of which are lagom-related. In the first scenario, lagom is maintained, both intrinsic (passive) and active TARAR countermeasures can be involved. In the second mode, there is a shift from one lagom to another. In the third mode, reguland regulation, the regulated entity is the target of a regulatory shift, which is often irreversible or requires action of another regulator to return to original state. After the shift, the system enters to lagom maintenance mode, but at new lagom extent. The model is described and elaborated with examples and applications, including medicine and systems biology. Consequences of non-lagom extent of heterogeneity are introduced, along with a novel idea for therapy by reconstituting biological processes to lagom extent, even when the primary effect cannot be treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauno Vihinen
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, BMC B13, Lund, SE-221 84, Sweden
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21
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Kang Y, Lee K, Hoshikawa K, Kang M, Jang S. Molecular Bases of Heat Stress Responses in Vegetable Crops With Focusing on Heat Shock Factors and Heat Shock Proteins. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:837152. [PMID: 35481144 PMCID: PMC9036485 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.837152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The effects of the climate change including an increase in the average global temperatures, and abnormal weather events such as frequent and severe heatwaves are emerging as a worldwide ecological concern due to their impacts on plant vegetation and crop productivity. In this review, the molecular processes of plants in response to heat stress-from the sensing of heat stress, the subsequent molecular cascades associated with the activation of heat shock factors and their primary targets (heat shock proteins), to the cellular responses-have been summarized with an emphasis on the classification and functions of heat shock proteins. Vegetables contain many essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibers that provide many critical health benefits to humans. The adverse effects of heat stress on vegetable growth can be alleviated by developing vegetable crops with enhanced thermotolerance with the aid of various genetic tools. To achieve this goal, a solid understanding of the molecular and/or cellular mechanisms underlying various responses of vegetables to high temperature is imperative. Therefore, efforts to identify heat stress-responsive genes including those that code for heat shock factors and heat shock proteins, their functional roles in vegetable crops, and also their application to developing vegetables tolerant to heat stress are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeeun Kang
- World Vegetable Center Korea Office, Wanju-gun, South Korea
| | - Kwanuk Lee
- National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science (NIHHS), Rural Development Administration (RDA), Wanju-gun, South Korea
| | - Ken Hoshikawa
- Biological Resources and Post-harvest Division, Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS), Tsukuba, Japan
| | | | - Seonghoe Jang
- World Vegetable Center Korea Office, Wanju-gun, South Korea
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22
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Dykstra PB, Kaplan M, Smolke CD. Engineering synthetic RNA devices for cell control. Nat Rev Genet 2022; 23:215-228. [PMID: 34983970 PMCID: PMC9554294 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-021-00436-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The versatility of RNA in sensing and interacting with small molecules, proteins and other nucleic acids while encoding genetic instructions for protein translation makes it a powerful substrate for engineering biological systems. RNA devices integrate cellular information sensing, processing and actuation of specific signals into defined functions and have yielded programmable biological systems and novel therapeutics of increasing sophistication. However, challenges centred on expanding the range of analytes that can be sensed and adding new mechanisms of action have hindered the full realization of the field's promise. Here, we describe recent advances that address these limitations and point to a significant maturation of synthetic RNA-based devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter B. Dykstra
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Matias Kaplan
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Christina D. Smolke
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.,Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA.,
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23
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Sharma A, Alajangi HK, Pisignano G, Sood V, Singh G, Barnwal RP. RNA thermometers and other regulatory elements: Diversity and importance in bacterial pathogenesis. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2022; 13:e1711. [PMID: 35037405 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Survival of microorganisms depends to a large extent on environmental conditions and the occupied host. By adopting specific strategies, microorganisms can thrive in the surrounding environment and, at the same time, preserve their viability. Evading the host defenses requires several mechanisms compatible with the host survival which include the production of RNA thermometers to regulate the expression of genes responsible for heat or cold shock as well as of those involved in virulence. Microorganisms have developed a variety of molecules in response to the environmental changes in temperature and even more specifically to the host they invade. Among all, RNA-based regulatory mechanisms are the most common ones, highlighting the importance of such molecules in gene expression control and novel drug development by suitable structure-based alterations. This article is categorized under: RNA Structure and Dynamics > RNA Structure, Dynamics and Chemistry RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Structure and Dynamics > Influence of RNA Structure in Biological Systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Sharma
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.,University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Hema Kumari Alajangi
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.,University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Vikas Sood
- Department of Biochemistry, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Gurpal Singh
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
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24
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Shaw Stewart PD, Bach JL. Temperature dependent viral tropism: understanding viral seasonality and pathogenicity as applied to the avoidance and treatment of endemic viral respiratory illnesses. Rev Med Virol 2022; 32:e2241. [PMID: 33942417 PMCID: PMC8209954 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
This review seeks to explain three features of viral respiratory illnesses that have perplexed generations of virologists: (1) the seasonal timing of respiratory illness and the rapid response of outbreaks to weather, specifically temperature; (2) the common viruses causing respiratory illness worldwide, including year-round disease in the Tropics; (3) the rapid arrival and termination of epidemics caused by influenza and other viruses. The inadequacy of the popular explanations of seasonality is discussed, and a simple hypothesis is proposed, called temperature dependent viral tropism (TDVT), that is compatible with the above features of respiratory illness. TDVT notes that viruses can spread more effectively if they moderate their pathogenicity (thereby maintaining host mobility) and suggests that endemic respiratory viruses accomplish this by developing thermal sensitivity within a range that supports organ-specific viral tropism within the human body, whereby they replicate most rapidly at temperatures below body temperature. This can confine them to the upper respiratory tract and allow them to avoid infecting the lungs, heart, gut etc. Biochemical and tissue-culture studies show that 'wild' respiratory viruses show such natural thermal sensitivity. The typical early autumn surge of colds and the occurrence of respiratory illness in the Tropics year-round at intermediate levels are explained by the tendency for strains to adapt their thermal sensitivity to their local climate and season. TDVT has important practical implications for preventing and treating respiratory illness including Covid-19. It is testable with many options for experiments to increase our understanding of viral seasonality and pathogenicity.
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25
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Sen S, Patel A, Gola KK. Design of a Toolbox of RNA Thermometers. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2518:125-133. [PMID: 35666443 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2421-0_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
RNA thermometers are RNA regulatory elements that convert temperature into a functional biological response through a temperature-induced conformational change. These regulatory elements have been investigated in numerous natural contexts and have been designed for synthetic biology as well. A basic challenge has been the design of an RNA thermometer whose final activity in response to temperature matches a prespecified response, in terms of its sensitivity, threshold, and leakiness. This chapter provides a methodology for the design of a toolbox of RNA thermometers. We describe considerations for the conceptual design, a computational assessment, and strategies for experimental synthesis and measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaunak Sen
- Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Delhi, New Delhi, India.
| | - Abhilash Patel
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College, London, UK
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26
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The Role of RNA Secondary Structure in Regulation of Gene Expression in Bacteria. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157845. [PMID: 34360611 PMCID: PMC8346122 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the high exposition to changing environmental conditions, bacteria have developed many mechanisms enabling immediate adjustments of gene expression. In many cases, the required speed and plasticity of the response are provided by RNA-dependent regulatory mechanisms. This is possible due to the very high dynamics and flexibility of an RNA structure, which provide the necessary sensitivity and specificity for efficient sensing and transduction of environmental signals. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge about known bacterial regulatory mechanisms which rely on RNA structure. To better understand the structure-driven modulation of gene expression, we describe the basic theory on RNA structure folding and dynamics. Next, we present examples of multiple mechanisms employed by RNA regulators in the control of bacterial transcription and translation.
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27
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Born J, Weitzel K, Suess B, Pfeifer F. A Synthetic Riboswitch to Regulate Haloarchaeal Gene Expression. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:696181. [PMID: 34211452 PMCID: PMC8241225 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.696181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, synthetic riboswitches have become increasingly important to construct genetic circuits in all three domains of life. In bacteria, synthetic translational riboswitches are often employed that modulate gene expression by masking the Shine-Dalgarno (SD) sequence in the absence or presence of a cognate ligand. For (halo-)archaeal translation, a SD sequence is not strictly required. The application of synthetic riboswitches in haloarchaea is therefore limited so far, also because of the molar intracellular salt concentrations found in these microbes. In this study, we applied synthetic theophylline-dependent translational riboswitches in the archaeon Haloferax volcanii. The riboswitch variants A through E and E∗ were chosen since they not only mask the SD sequence but also the AUG start codon by forming a secondary structure in the absence of the ligand theophylline. Upon addition of the ligand, the ribosomal binding site and start codon become accessible for translation initiation. Riboswitch E mediated a dose-dependent, up to threefold activation of the bgaH reporter gene expression. Raising the salt concentration of the culture media from 3 to 4 M NaCl resulted in a 12-fold increase in the switching capacity of riboswitch E, and switching activity increased up to 26-fold when the cultivating temperature was reduced from 45 to 30°C. To construct a genetic circuit, riboswitch E was applied to regulate the synthesis of the transcriptional activator GvpE allowing a dose-dependent activation of the mgfp6 reporter gene under P pA promoter control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Beatrix Suess
- Synthetic RNA Biology, Department of Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany.,Centre of Synthetic Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
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28
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Mattoon ER, Casadevall A, Cordero RJB. Beat the heat: correlates, compounds, and mechanisms involved in fungal thermotolerance. FUNGAL BIOL REV 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbr.2021.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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29
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Obuchowski I, Karaś P, Liberek K. The Small Ones Matter-sHsps in the Bacterial Chaperone Network. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:666893. [PMID: 34055885 PMCID: PMC8155344 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.666893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Small heat shock proteins (sHsps) are an evolutionarily conserved class of ATP-independent chaperones that form the first line of defence during proteotoxic stress. sHsps are defined not only by their relatively low molecular weight, but also by the presence of a conserved α-crystallin domain, which is flanked by less conserved, mostly unstructured, N- and C-terminal domains. sHsps form oligomers of different sizes which deoligomerize upon stress conditions into smaller active forms. Activated sHsps bind to aggregation-prone protein substrates to form assemblies that keep substrates from irreversible aggregation. Formation of these assemblies facilitates subsequent Hsp70 and Hsp100 chaperone-dependent disaggregation and substrate refolding into native species. This mini review discusses what is known about the role and place of bacterial sHsps in the chaperone network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Obuchowski
- Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology UG-MUG, University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | | | - Krzysztof Liberek
- Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology UG-MUG, University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
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30
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Catalan-Moreno A, Cela M, Menendez-Gil P, Irurzun N, Caballero CJ, Caldelari I, Toledo-Arana A. RNA thermoswitches modulate Staphylococcus aureus adaptation to ambient temperatures. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:3409-3426. [PMID: 33660769 PMCID: PMC8034633 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Thermoregulation of virulence genes in bacterial pathogens is essential for environment-to-host transition. However, the mechanisms governing cold adaptation when outside the host remain poorly understood. Here, we found that the production of cold shock proteins CspB and CspC from Staphylococcus aureus is controlled by two paralogous RNA thermoswitches. Through in silico prediction, enzymatic probing and site-directed mutagenesis, we demonstrated that cspB and cspC 5′UTRs adopt alternative RNA structures that shift from one another upon temperature shifts. The open (O) conformation that facilitates mRNA translation is favoured at ambient temperatures (22°C). Conversely, the alternative locked (L) conformation, where the ribosome binding site (RBS) is sequestered in a double-stranded RNA structure, is folded at host-related temperatures (37°C). These structural rearrangements depend on a long RNA hairpin found in the O conformation that sequesters the anti-RBS sequence. Notably, the remaining S. aureus CSP, CspA, may interact with a UUUGUUU motif located in the loop of this long hairpin and favour the folding of the L conformation. This folding represses CspB and CspC production at 37°C. Simultaneous deletion of the cspB/cspC genes or their RNA thermoswitches significantly decreases S. aureus growth rate at ambient temperatures, highlighting the importance of CspB/CspC thermoregulation when S. aureus transitions from the host to the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arancha Catalan-Moreno
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología, IdAB, CSIC-Gobierno de Navarra, Avda. de Pamplona 123, 31192 Mutilva, Navarra, Spain
| | - Marta Cela
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología, IdAB, CSIC-Gobierno de Navarra, Avda. de Pamplona 123, 31192 Mutilva, Navarra, Spain
| | - Pilar Menendez-Gil
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología, IdAB, CSIC-Gobierno de Navarra, Avda. de Pamplona 123, 31192 Mutilva, Navarra, Spain
| | - Naiara Irurzun
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología, IdAB, CSIC-Gobierno de Navarra, Avda. de Pamplona 123, 31192 Mutilva, Navarra, Spain
| | - Carlos J Caballero
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología, IdAB, CSIC-Gobierno de Navarra, Avda. de Pamplona 123, 31192 Mutilva, Navarra, Spain
| | - Isabelle Caldelari
- Architecture et Réactivité de l'ARN, Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, UPR 9002, F-67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Alejandro Toledo-Arana
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología, IdAB, CSIC-Gobierno de Navarra, Avda. de Pamplona 123, 31192 Mutilva, Navarra, Spain
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Nexha A, Carvajal JJ, Pujol MC, Díaz F, Aguiló M. Lanthanide doped luminescence nanothermometers in the biological windows: strategies and applications. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:7913-7987. [PMID: 33899861 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr09150b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The development of lanthanide-doped non-contact luminescent nanothermometers with accuracy, efficiency and fast diagnostic tools attributed to their versatility, stability and narrow emission band profiles has spurred the replacement of conventional contact thermal probes. The application of lanthanide-doped materials as temperature nanosensors, excited by ultraviolet, visible or near infrared light, and the generation of emissions lying in the biological window regions, I-BW (650 nm-950 nm), II-BW (1000 nm-1350 nm), III-BW (1400 nm-2000 nm) and IV-BW (centered at 2200 nm), are notably growing due to the advantages they present, including reduced phototoxicity and photobleaching, better image contrast and deeper penetration depths into biological tissues. Here, the different mechanisms used in lanthanide ion-doped nanomaterials to sense temperature in these biological windows for biomedical and other applications are summarized, focusing on factors that affect their thermal sensitivity, and consequently their temperature resolution. Comparing the thermometric performance of these nanomaterials in each biological window, we identified the strategies that allow boosting of their sensing properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albenc Nexha
- Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Departament de Química Física i Inorgànica, Física i Cristal·lografia de Materials i Nanomaterials (FiCMA-FiCNA)-EMaS, Campus Sescelades, E-43007, Tarragona, Spain.
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Nwokolo OA, Kidd B, Allen T, Minasyan AS, Vardelly S, Johnson KD, Nesterova IV. Rational Design of Memory‐Based Sensors: the Case of Molecular Calorimeters. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202011422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Obianuju A. Nwokolo
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Northern Illinois University DeKalb IL 60115 USA
| | - Brant Kidd
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Northern Illinois University DeKalb IL 60115 USA
| | - Te'Kara Allen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Northern Illinois University DeKalb IL 60115 USA
| | - Alexander S. Minasyan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Northern Illinois University DeKalb IL 60115 USA
| | - Suchitra Vardelly
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Northern Illinois University DeKalb IL 60115 USA
| | - Kristopher D. Johnson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Northern Illinois University DeKalb IL 60115 USA
| | - Irina V. Nesterova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Northern Illinois University DeKalb IL 60115 USA
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Samuels DS, Lybecker MC, Yang XF, Ouyang Z, Bourret TJ, Boyle WK, Stevenson B, Drecktrah D, Caimano MJ. Gene Regulation and Transcriptomics. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2020; 42:223-266. [PMID: 33300497 DOI: 10.21775/cimb.042.223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Borrelia (Borreliella) burgdorferi, along with closely related species, is the etiologic agent of Lyme disease. The spirochete subsists in an enzootic cycle that encompasses acquisition from a vertebrate host to a tick vector and transmission from a tick vector to a vertebrate host. To adapt to its environment and persist in each phase of its enzootic cycle, B. burgdorferi wields three systems to regulate the expression of genes: the RpoN-RpoS alternative sigma factor cascade, the Hk1/Rrp1 two-component system and its product c-di-GMP, and the stringent response mediated by RelBbu and DksA. These regulatory systems respond to enzootic phase-specific signals and are controlled or fine- tuned by transcription factors, including BosR and BadR, as well as small RNAs, including DsrABb and Bb6S RNA. In addition, several other DNA-binding and RNA-binding proteins have been identified, although their functions have not all been defined. Global changes in gene expression revealed by high-throughput transcriptomic studies have elucidated various regulons, albeit technical obstacles have mostly limited this experimental approach to cultivated spirochetes. Regardless, we know that the spirochete, which carries a relatively small genome, regulates the expression of a considerable number of genes required for the transitions between the tick vector and the vertebrate host as well as the adaptation to each.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Scott Samuels
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | - Meghan C Lybecker
- Department of Biology, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, USA
| | - X Frank Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Zhiming Ouyang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Travis J Bourret
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, 68105 USA
| | - William K Boyle
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, 68105 USA
| | - Brian Stevenson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky School of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Dan Drecktrah
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA
| | - Melissa J Caimano
- Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
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Zhang H, Hall I, Nissley AJ, Abdallah K, Keane SC. A Tale of Two Transitions: The Unfolding Mechanism of the prfA RNA Thermosensor. Biochemistry 2020; 59:4533-4545. [PMID: 33231432 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.0c00588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
RNA thermosensors (RNATs), found in the 5' untranslated region (UTR) of some bacterial messenger RNAs (mRNAs), control the translation of the downstream gene in a temperature-dependent manner. In Listeria monocytogenes, the expression of a key transcription factor, PrfA, is mediated by an RNAT in its 5' UTR. PrfA functions as a master regulator of virulence in L. monocytogenes, controlling the expression of many virulence factors. The temperature-regulated expression of PrfA by its RNAT element serves as a signal of successful host invasion for the bacteria. Structurally, the prfA RNAT bears little resemblance to known families of RNATs, and prior studies demonstrated that the prfA RNAT is highly responsive over a narrow temperature range. Herein, we have undertaken a comprehensive mutational and thermodynamic analysis to ascertain the molecular determinants of temperature sensitivity. We provide evidence to support the idea that the prfA RNAT unfolding is different from that of cssA, a well-characterized RNAT, suggesting that these RNATs function via distinct mechanisms. Our data show that the unfolding of the prfA RNAT occurs in two distinct events and that the internal loops play an important role in mediating the cooperativity of RNAT unfolding. We further demonstrated that regions distal to the ribosome binding site (RBS) not only contribute to RNAT structural stability but also impact translation of the downstream message. Our collective results provide insight connecting the thermal stability of the prfA RNAT structure, unfolding energetics, and translational control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaqun Zhang
- Biophysics Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Ian Hall
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Amos J Nissley
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Kyrillos Abdallah
- Biophysics Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Sarah C Keane
- Biophysics Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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Nwokolo OA, Kidd B, Allen T, Minasyan AS, Vardelly S, Johnson KD, Nesterova IV. Rational Design of Memory-Based Sensors: the Case of Molecular Calorimeters. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 60:1610-1614. [PMID: 32996657 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202011422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Thermodynamic characterization is crucial for understanding molecular interactions. However, methodologies for measuring heat changes in small open systems are extremely limited. We document a new approach for designing molecular sensors, that function as calorimeters: sensors based on memory. To design a memory-based sensor, we take advantage of the unique kinetic properties of nucleic acid scaffolds. Particularly, we elaborate on the differences in folding and unfolding rates in nucleic acid quadruplexes. DNA-based i-motifs unfold fast in response to small heats but do not fold back when the system is equilibrated with surroundings. We translated this behavior into a molecular memory function that enables the measurement of heat changes in open environments. The new sensors are biocompatible, operate homogeneously, and measure small heats released over long time periods. As a proof-of-concept, we demonstrate how the molecular calorimeters report heat changes generated in water/propanol mixing and in ligand/protein binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Obianuju A Nwokolo
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 60115, USA
| | - Brant Kidd
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 60115, USA
| | - Te'Kara Allen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 60115, USA
| | - Alexander S Minasyan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 60115, USA
| | - Suchitra Vardelly
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 60115, USA
| | - Kristopher D Johnson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 60115, USA
| | - Irina V Nesterova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 60115, USA
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Araújo CL, Blanco I, Souza L, Tiwari S, Pereira LC, Ghosh P, Azevedo V, Silva A, Folador A. In silico functional prediction of hypothetical proteins from the core genome of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis biovar ovis. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9643. [PMID: 32913672 PMCID: PMC7456259 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis is a pathogen of veterinary relevance diseases, being divided into two biovars: equi and ovis; causing ulcerative lymphangitis and caseous lymphadenitis, respectively. The isolation and sequencing of C. pseudotuberculosis biovar ovis strains in the Northern and Northeastern regions of Brazil exhibited the emergence of this pathogen, which causes economic losses to small ruminant producers, and condemnation of carcasses and skins of animals. Through the pan-genomic approach, it is possible to determine and analyze genes that are shared by all strains of a species—the core genome. However, many of these genes do not have any predicted function, being characterized as hypothetical proteins (HP). In this study, we considered 32 C. pseudotuberculosis biovar ovis genomes for the pan-genomic analysis, where were identified 172 HP present in a core genome composed by 1255 genes. We are able to functionally annotate 80 sequences previously characterized as HP through the identification of structural features as conserved domains and families. Furthermore, we analyzed the physicochemical properties, subcellular localization and molecular function. Additionally, through RNA-seq data, we investigated the differential gene expression of the annotated HP. Genes inserted in pathogenicity islands had their virulence potential evaluated. Also, we have analyzed the existence of functional associations for their products based on protein–protein interaction networks, and perform the structural prediction of three targets. Due to the integration of different strategies, this study can underlie deeper in vitro researches in the characterization of these HP and the search for new solutions for combat this pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Leonardo Araújo
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Center of Genomics and Systems Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Iago Blanco
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Center of Genomics and Systems Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Luciana Souza
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Center of Genomics and Systems Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Sandeep Tiwari
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lino César Pereira
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Center of Genomics and Systems Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Preetam Ghosh
- Department of Computer Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Vasco Azevedo
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Artur Silva
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Center of Genomics and Systems Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Adriana Folador
- Laboratory of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Center of Genomics and Systems Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
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González Plaza JJ. Small RNAs as Fundamental Players in the Transference of Information During Bacterial Infectious Diseases. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:101. [PMID: 32613006 PMCID: PMC7308464 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.00101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Communication shapes life on Earth. Transference of information has played a paramount role on the evolution of all living or extinct organisms since the appearance of life. Success or failure in this process will determine the prevalence or disappearance of a certain set of genes, the basis of Darwinian paradigm. Among different molecules used for transmission or reception of information, RNA plays a key role. For instance, the early precursors of life were information molecules based in primitive RNA forms. A growing field of research has focused on the contribution of small non-coding RNA forms due to its role on infectious diseases. These are short RNA species that carry out regulatory tasks in cis or trans. Small RNAs have shown their relevance in fine tuning the expression and activity of important regulators of essential genes for bacteria. Regulation of targets occurs through a plethora of mechanisms, including mRNA stabilization/destabilization, driving target mRNAs to degradation, or direct binding to regulatory proteins. Different studies have been conducted during the interplay of pathogenic bacteria with several hosts, including humans, animals, or plants. The sRNAs help the invader to quickly adapt to the change in environmental conditions when it enters in the host, or passes to a free state. The adaptation is achieved by direct targeting of the pathogen genes, or subversion of the host immune system. Pathogens trigger also an immune response in the host, which has been shown as well to be regulated by a wide range of sRNAs. This review focuses on the most recent host-pathogen interaction studies during bacterial infectious diseases, providing the perspective of the pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan José González Plaza
- Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czechia
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38
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Tack DC, Su Z, Yu Y, Bevilacqua PC, Assmann SM. Tissue-specific changes in the RNA structurome mediate salinity response in Arabidopsis. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 26:492-511. [PMID: 31937672 PMCID: PMC7075263 DOI: 10.1261/rna.072850.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Little is known concerning the effects of abiotic factors on in vivo RNA structures. We applied Structure-seq to assess the in vivo mRNA structuromes of Arabidopsis thaliana under salinity stress, which negatively impacts agriculture. Structure-seq utilizes dimethyl sulfate reactivity to identify As and Cs that lack base-pairing or protection. Salt stress refolded transcripts differentially in root versus shoot, evincing tissue specificity of the structurome. Both tissues exhibited an inverse correlation between salt stress-induced changes in transcript reactivity and changes in abundance, with stress-related mRNAs showing particular structural dynamism. This inverse correlation is more pronounced in mRNAs wherein the mean reactivity of the 5'UTR, CDS, and 3'UTR concertedly change under salinity stress, suggesting increased susceptibility to abundance control mechanisms in transcripts exhibiting this phenomenon, which we name "concordancy." Concordant salinity-induced increases in reactivity were notably observed in photosynthesis genes, thereby implicating mRNA structural loss in the well-known depression of photosynthesis by salt stress. Overall, changes in secondary structure appear to impact mRNA abundance, molding the functional specificity of the transcriptome under stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Tack
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
- Spectrum Health Office of Research, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, USA
| | - Zhao Su
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Yunqing Yu
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Philip C Bevilacqua
- Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
- Center for RNA Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Sarah M Assmann
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
- Center for RNA Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
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Regulation of OmpA Translation and Shigella dysenteriae Virulence by an RNA Thermometer. Infect Immun 2020; 88:IAI.00871-19. [PMID: 31792074 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00871-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA thermometers are cis-acting riboregulators that mediate the posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression in response to environmental temperature. Such regulation is conferred by temperature-responsive structural changes within the RNA thermometer that directly result in differential ribosomal binding to the regulated transcript. The significance of RNA thermometers in controlling bacterial physiology and pathogenesis is becoming increasingly clear. This study combines in silico, molecular genetics, and biochemical analyses to characterize both the structure and function of a newly identified RNA thermometer within the ompA transcript of Shigella dysenteriae First identified by in silico structural predictions, genetic analyses have demonstrated that the ompA RNA thermometer is a functional riboregulator sufficient to confer posttranscriptional temperature-dependent regulation, with optimal expression observed at the host-associated temperature of 37°C. Structural studies and ribosomal binding analyses have revealed both increased exposure of the ribosomal binding site and increased ribosomal binding to the ompA transcript at permissive temperatures. The introduction of site-specific mutations predicted to alter the temperature responsiveness of the ompA RNA thermometer has predictable consequences for both the structure and function of the regulatory element. Finally, in vitro tissue culture-based analyses implicate the ompA RNA thermometer as a bona fide S. dysenteriae virulence factor in this bacterial pathogen. Given that ompA is highly conserved among Gram-negative pathogens, these studies not only provide insight into the significance of riboregulation in controlling Shigella virulence, but they also have the potential to facilitate further understanding of the physiology and/or pathogenesis of a wide range of bacterial species.
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Abstract
Temperature is an important parameter in bioprocesses, influencing the structure and functionality of almost every biomolecule, as well as affecting metabolic reaction rates. In industrial biotechnology, the temperature is usually tightly controlled at an optimum value. Smart variation of the temperature to optimize the performance of a bioprocess brings about multiple complex and interconnected metabolic changes and is so far only rarely applied. Mathematical descriptions and models facilitate a reduction in complexity, as well as an understanding, of these interconnections. Starting in the 19th century with the “primal” temperature model of Svante Arrhenius, a variety of models have evolved over time to describe growth and enzymatic reaction rates as functions of temperature. Data-driven empirical approaches, as well as complex mechanistic models based on thermodynamic knowledge of biomolecular behavior at different temperatures, have been developed. Even though underlying biological mechanisms and mathematical models have been well-described, temperature as a control variable is only scarcely applied in bioprocess engineering, and as a conclusion, an exploitation strategy merging both in context has not yet been established. In this review, the most important models for physiological, biochemical, and physical properties governed by temperature are presented and discussed, along with application perspectives. As such, this review provides a toolset for future exploitation perspectives of temperature in bioprocess engineering.
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Schwarzenbach H, Gahan PB. Circulating non-coding RNAs in recurrent and metastatic ovarian cancer. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2019; 2:399-418. [PMID: 35582568 PMCID: PMC8992516 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2019.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer has a poor outcome because it is usually detected at advanced tumor stages, and the majority of the patients develop disease relapse as a result of chemotherapy resistance. This most lethal gynecological malignancy metastasizes within the peritoneal fluid or ascites to pelvic and distal organs. In ovarian cancer progression and metastasis, small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including long noncoding RNAs and microRNAs have been recognized as important regulators. Their dysregulation modulates gene expression and cellular signal pathways and can be detected in liquid biopsies. In this review, we provide an overview on circulating plasma and serum ncRNAs participating in tumor cell migration and invasion, and contributing to recurrence and metastasis of ovarian cancer. We will also discuss the development of potential, novel therapies using ncRNAs as target molecules or tumor markers for ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Schwarzenbach
- Department of Tumor Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Peter B Gahan
- Fondazione "Enrico Puccinelli" Onlus, Perugia 06123, Italy
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Mogk A, Ruger-Herreros C, Bukau B. Cellular Functions and Mechanisms of Action of Small Heat Shock Proteins. Annu Rev Microbiol 2019; 73:89-110. [PMID: 31091419 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-020518-115515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Small heat shock proteins (sHsps) constitute a diverse chaperone family that shares the α-crystallin domain, which is flanked by variable, disordered N- and C-terminal extensions. sHsps act as the first line of cellular defense against protein unfolding stress. They form dynamic, large oligomers that represent inactive storage forms. Stress conditions cause a rapid increase in cellular sHsp levels and trigger conformational rearrangements, resulting in exposure of substrate-binding sites and sHsp activation. sHsps bind to early-unfolding intermediates of misfolding proteins in an ATP-independent manner and sequester them in sHsp/substrate complexes. Sequestration protects substrates from further uncontrolled aggregation and facilitates their refolding by ATP-dependent Hsp70-Hsp100 disaggregases. Some sHsps with particularly strong sequestrase activity, such as yeast Hsp42, are critical factors for forming large, microscopically visible deposition sites of misfolded proteins in vivo. These sites are organizing centers for triaging substrates to distinct quality control pathways, preferentially Hsp70-dependent refolding and selective autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Mogk
- Center for Molecular Biology of the University of Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; ,
| | - Carmen Ruger-Herreros
- Center for Molecular Biology of the University of Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; ,
| | - Bernd Bukau
- Center for Molecular Biology of the University of Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; ,
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Shi L, Chang D, Zhang G, Zhang C, Zhang Y, Dong C, Chu L, Shuang S. Co2+ detection, cell imaging, and temperature sensing based on excitation-independent green-fluorescent N-doped carbon dots. RSC Adv 2019; 9:41361-41367. [PMID: 35540082 PMCID: PMC9076455 DOI: 10.1039/c9ra09405a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Green-fluorescent N-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) have been successfully fabricated using hydrothermal treatment of tyrosine and urea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Shi
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Shanxi University
- Taiyuan 030006
- PR China
| | - Dan Chang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Shanxi University
- Taiyuan 030006
- PR China
| | - Guomei Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Shanxi University
- Taiyuan 030006
- PR China
| | - Caihong Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Shanxi University
- Taiyuan 030006
- PR China
| | - Yan Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Shanxi University
- Taiyuan 030006
- PR China
| | - Chuan Dong
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Shanxi University
- Taiyuan 030006
- PR China
| | - Lanling Chu
- School of Light Industry and Food Engineering
- Nanjing Forestry University
- China
| | - Shaomin Shuang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
- Shanxi University
- Taiyuan 030006
- PR China
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Shin J, Song Y, Jin S, Lee JK, Kim DR, Kim SC, Cho S, Cho BK. Genome-scale analysis of Acetobacterium bakii reveals the cold adaptation of psychrotolerant acetogens by post-transcriptional regulation. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2018; 24:1839-1855. [PMID: 30249742 PMCID: PMC6239172 DOI: 10.1261/rna.068239.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Acetogens synthesize acetyl-CoA via CO2 or CO fixation, producing organic compounds. Despite their ecological and industrial importance, their transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation has not been systematically studied. With completion of the genome sequence of Acetobacterium bakii (4.28-Mb), we measured changes in the transcriptome of this psychrotolerant acetogen in response to temperature variations under autotrophic and heterotrophic growth conditions. Unexpectedly, acetogenesis genes were highly up-regulated at low temperatures under heterotrophic, as well as autotrophic, growth conditions. To mechanistically understand the transcriptional regulation of acetogenesis genes via changes in RNA secondary structures of 5'-untranslated regions (5'-UTR), the primary transcriptome was experimentally determined, and 1379 transcription start sites (TSS) and 1100 5'-UTR were found. Interestingly, acetogenesis genes contained longer 5'-UTR with lower RNA-folding free energy than other genes, revealing that the 5'-UTRs control the RNA abundance of the acetogenesis genes under low temperature conditions. Our findings suggest that post-transcriptional regulation via RNA conformational changes of 5'-UTRs is necessary for cold-adaptive acetogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jongoh Shin
- Department of Biological Sciences and KI for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoseb Song
- Department of Biological Sciences and KI for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangrak Jin
- Department of Biological Sciences and KI for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Kul Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Rip Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Chang Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences and KI for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- Intelligent Synthetic Biology Center, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Suhyung Cho
- Department of Biological Sciences and KI for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Kwan Cho
- Department of Biological Sciences and KI for the BioCentury, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
- Intelligent Synthetic Biology Center, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
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45
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Heat shock response in archaea. Emerg Top Life Sci 2018; 2:581-593. [DOI: 10.1042/etls20180024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
An adequate response to a sudden temperature rise is crucial for cellular fitness and survival. While heat shock response (HSR) is well described in bacteria and eukaryotes, much less information is available for archaea, of which many characterized species are extremophiles thriving in habitats typified by large temperature gradients. Here, we describe known molecular aspects of archaeal heat shock proteins (HSPs) as key components of the protein homeostasis machinery and place this in a phylogenetic perspective with respect to bacterial and eukaryotic HSPs. Particular emphasis is placed on structure–function details of the archaeal thermosome, which is a major element of the HSR and of which subunit composition is altered in response to temperature changes. In contrast with the structural response, it is largely unclear how archaeal cells sense temperature fluctuations and which molecular mechanisms underlie the corresponding regulation. We frame this gap in knowledge by discussing emerging questions related to archaeal HSR and by proposing methodologies to address them. Additionally, as has been shown in bacteria and eukaryotes, HSR is expected to be relevant for the control of physiology and growth in various stress conditions beyond temperature stress. A better understanding of this essential cellular process in archaea will not only provide insights into the evolution of HSR and of its sensing and regulation, but also inspire the development of biotechnological applications, by enabling transfer of archaeal heat shock components to other biological systems and for the engineering of archaea as robust cell factories.
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46
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RNA motifs and combinatorial prediction of interactions, stability and localization of noncoding RNAs. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2018; 25:1070-1076. [DOI: 10.1038/s41594-018-0155-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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47
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Bevilacqua PC, Assmann SM. Technique Development for Probing RNA Structure In Vivo and Genome-Wide. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2018; 10:a032250. [PMID: 30275275 PMCID: PMC6169808 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a032250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
How organisms perceive and respond to their surroundings is one of the great questions in biology. It is clear that RNA plays key roles in sensing. Cellular and environmental cues that RNA responds to include temperature, ions, metabolites, and biopolymers. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing and in vivo chemical probing have provided unprecedented insights into RNA folding in vivo and genome-wide. Patterns of chemical reactivity have implicated control of gene expression by RNA and aided prediction of RNA structure. Central to these advances has been development of molecular biological and chemical techniques. Key advances are improvements in the quality, cost, and throughput of library preparation; availability of a wider array of chemicals for probing RNA structure in vivo; and robustness and user friendliness of data analysis. Insights from probing transcriptomes and future directions are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Bevilacqua
- Departments of Chemistry and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802
| | - Sarah M Assmann
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802
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48
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Leonarski F, Jasiński M, Trylska J. Thermodynamics of the fourU RNA thermal switch derived from molecular dynamics simulations and spectroscopic techniques. Biochimie 2018; 156:22-32. [PMID: 30244136 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2018.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial 5' untranslated regions of mRNA, termed thermal switches or thermometers, change their structure in response to temperature change. This structural change provides for the regulation of gene expression. One of such thermal switches, called fourU, is present in the Salmonella species. Mutations of fourU were found to abrogate its regulatory properties. We investigated the thermodynamics of the fourU fragment responsible for its structural changes. All-atom molecular dynamics simulations at various temperatures and spectroscopic experiments in solution were performed for the wild-type fourU and its mutants. We found that the U11C and A8C mutations stabilize the fourU structure in comparison to the wild-type fourU, and the double-point G14A/C25U mutant has the most destabilizing effect on the fourU hairpin 2 responsible for temperature sensing. The G14A/C25U mutant is also the easiest to strand-invade by a complementary oligonucleotide as indicated by fluorescence spectroscopy experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip Leonarski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Jasiński
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Trylska
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland.
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Jaworska K, Nieckarz M, Ludwiczak M, Raczkowska A, Brzostek K. OmpR-Mediated Transcriptional Regulation and Function of Two Heme Receptor Proteins of Yersinia enterocolitica Bio-Serotype 2/O:9. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2018; 8:333. [PMID: 30294593 PMCID: PMC6158557 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
We show that Yersinia enterocolitica strain Ye9 (bio-serotype 2/O:9) utilizes heme-containing molecules as an iron source. The Ye9 genome contains two multigenic clusters, hemPRSTUV-1 and hemPRST-2, encoding putative heme receptors HemR1 and HemR2, that share 62% amino acid identity. Expression of these proteins in an Escherichia coli mutant defective in heme biosynthesis allowed this strain to use hemin and hemoglobin as a source of porphyrin. The hemPRSTUV-1 and hemPRST-2 clusters are organized as operons, expressed from the phem−1 and weaker phem−2 promoters, respectively. Expression of both operons is negatively regulated by iron and the iron-responsive transcriptional repressor Fur. In addition, OmpR, the response regulator of two component system (TCSs) EnvZ/OmpR, represses transcription of both operons through interaction with binding sequences overlapping the −35 region of their promoters. Western blot analysis of the level of HemR1 in ompR, fur, and ompRfur mutants, showed an additive effect of these mutations, indicating that OmpR may regulate HemR expression independently of Fur. However, the effect of OmpR on the activity of the phem−1 promoter and on HemR1 production was observed in both iron-depleted and iron-replete conditions, i.e., when Fur represses the iron-regulated promoter. In addition, a hairpin RNA thermometer, composed of four uracil residues (FourU) that pair with the ribosome-binding site in the 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR) of hemR1 was predicted by in silico analysis. However, thermoregulated expression of HemR1 could not be demonstrated. Taken together, these data suggest that Fur and OmpR control iron/heme acquisition via a complex mechanism based on negative regulation of hemR1 and hemR2 at the transcriptional level. This interplay could fine-tune the level of heme receptor proteins to allow Y. enterocolitica to fulfill its iron/heme requirements without over-accumulation, which might be important for pathogenic growth within human hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Jaworska
- Department of Applied Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Nieckarz
- Department of Applied Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Ludwiczak
- Department of Applied Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Adrianna Raczkowska
- Department of Applied Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Brzostek
- Department of Applied Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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50
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Cheong MS, Chi YH, Lee JY, Seo KH, Yun DJ, Kim JH. Calmodulin 2 Functions as an RNA Chaperone in Prokaryotic Cells. BIOTECHNOL BIOPROC E 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12257-018-0172-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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